Last-minute tips for hosting holiday guests (without the stress)
By Thumbtack Staff•Last updated Dec 20, 2021
Last updated Dec 20, 2021
The holiday season is here. And it’s a joyous time, but it can be pretty stressful, too. Putting up last-minute decorations, preparing a big feast, deep cleaning those nooks and crannies before your in-laws arrive — there’s a lot to take care of during the holidays. And if you’ve been busy (or procrastinating), your to-do list might be getting longer by the minute.
The good news: you don’t have to do it all yourself. Whether you plan to host a big party or celebrate with a small group of family and friends, follow these tips to help you get your home ready for the holidays. If you’re feeling stressed, there’s no shame in calling in the pros.
1. Get your home professionally cleaned
This may be the most important chore you tackle this holiday season. Health and safety are top of mind for everyone right now. If you plan to have guests over, a deep cleaning service is a great idea. After your guests leave, consider having the house cleaning company come back for another sweep.
2. Get that carpet and rug cleaned, too
No one wants to look at — or put bare feet on — dirty carpets. A professional carpet cleaning removes dust, dirt, and stains that occasional vacuuming doesn’t. It also helps extend your carpet’s life by removing debris that can cause it to deteriorate.
During the warmer months, pollen and pollutants attach to your carpets. Once cold weather arrives, you end up trapping those contaminants in your home. Clean your carpets and rugs to eliminate those extra allergens before your guests arrive.
3. Service and clean your kitchen appliances
Has your oven ever quit on you halfway through baking the Christmas ham? It’s a recipe for disaster. Before you start cooking and baking for a crew of family and friends, make sure your appliances are working.
If your burner isn't working, your oven isn’t getting hot enough, or your refrigerator is warmer than usual, call an appliance repair professional to take a look. And if your appliance is beyond repair, it may be time for an upgrade.
4. Keep warm air in and cold air out
Nobody likes chilly drafts from old windows, caulk issues, or poor insulation. Have a pro check your home’s energy efficiency before the holidays. They can help you locate air leaks and upgrade your insulation.
For example, an insulation contractor can replace or add insulation in your attic. A caulking specialist can seal cracks around your windows. You may also consider upgrading your windows to a more energy-efficient style to keep your house comfortable all year round. For example, windows with wood and fiberglass frames are more efficient.
5. Clean your fireplace and chimney
There’s something picturesque about curling up by the fire with loved ones. But before you do, make sure your fireplace is ready for guests by getting your chimney inspected. A professional chimney inspector will check for deterioration, blockage, or the buildup of hazardous materials.
Many chimney inspectors will also offer sweeping services and recommend repairs, and sometimes they can even perform those repairs, to help ensure a warm and safe night.
6. Put a little effort into your holiday decor
So you’re not a big fan of colorful string lights, reindeer families in the front yard, or inflatable Santas on the roof. Totally fine. But a little decor goes a long way in spreading cheer and getting your guests in the holiday spirit. You can do these decorations in less than a day:
- Hang a wreath decorated with red holly, ribbons, or bows.
- Purchase a holiday-themed welcome mat for outside your front door.
- Hang a few ornaments on the potted plants on your porch.
- Place red, white, and green pillows and throw blankets on your indoor and outdoor furniture.
- Project holiday lights and shapes on your home’s exterior instead of hanging string lights.
7. Get someone else to cook the holiday meals
Even top chefs can use a break from cooking for family and friends — especially during the holidays. This year, ditch the stress. Ask your guests to bring a dish and make it a potluck.
If you have a little extra room in your budget, consider booking a catering service. Or see if any personal chefs near you have availability during the holidays. You’ll impress your guests, and, more importantly, you’ll get to actually enjoy the celebrations instead of running around the kitchen.
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